India, May 22 -- Late NASCAR champion Kyle Busch quietly settled an $8.5 million lawsuit against Pacific Life Insurance Company just months before his death, with the case now drawing attention following the racer's sudden passing at 41.

According to Marca, Busch and his wife, Samantha Busch, had accused the insurer of misleading them into purchasing life insurance policies that were allegedly marketed as safe retirement investments. The dispute was resolved through a confidential out-of-court settlement disclosed in a February 26 court filing.

The settlement itself was not connected to Busch's illness or death, but it unfolded during the final chapter of the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion's life and career.

The lawsuit, filed in ...